INTO THE LANDS
OF THE RARAMURI
12 NIGHTS NATURE 🙴 CULTURE $ TBA
"The restlessness and the longing, like the longing that is in the whistle of a faraway train. Except that the longing isn't really in the whistle—it is in you."
- Meindart DeJong
The romance of train travel crowned with spectacular vistas overlooking magnificent pinnacles, ridges and a powerful network of six colossal canyons, with depths that are greater than those of the Grand Canyon — it is a soul-lifting experience...
But the real adventure begins once you step off the train platform for a pilgrimage that delivers you to straight into the mysterious lands of the Raramuri. Hide-covered pottery, vibrant fabrics, mystical waterfalls, the taste of Sotol on your tongue, pine-needles woven into exquisite baskets, and the warm smiles of locals who welcome you as guests of their territories, communities and cultural observances.
Quick Information
START: Los Mochis, Sinaloa
FINISH: Los Mochis, Sinaloa
DATES: Mar 20—Apr 1, 2024
GROUP: 14 Adults
DIFFICULTY: Some Hiking
PRICE: TBA
APPROXIMATE PRICE IN USD: TBA
APPROXIMATE PRICE IN CAD: TBA
Photo Gallery
SAFETY CONCERNS
Newcomers often ask: Is Mexico Safe?
While crime is widely reported across the news, it is largely targeted in Mexico. The general rules that apply elsewhere, apply here, such as not flashing your wealth around, not walking alone at night, or using ATM's after dark when the streets are vacant of people. Don't sell or buy drugs, and be aware of your surroundings. If you are driving in Mexico, we don't recommend travel on rural roads after dark, as accidents with livestock are too common.
Generally, Mexico is a very safe country with a warm and engaging citizenry, lovely restaurants, fascinating history, eclectic architecture and never–ending celebrations.
CONTACT US
Jennifer Bjarnason
Proprietor
coppermoontravels@protonmail.com
Text
+52 443 639 2782
If you would like us to call you, please email or text us to set up an appointment.
Trip Itinerary
Welcome to the Copper Canyon
Day One: Wednesday March 20,2024
Hotel Location: El Fuerte, Sinaloa
Bienvenidos! Today we will fly to Los Mochis, Sinaloa to meet. Please be in Los Mochis no later than 1 PM, as we will be commuting by local bus for the Pueblo Magico El Fuerte. It may be necessary for you to arrive one day early, or over-night in Mexico City to catch a morning flight to Los Mochis. Once we know where you are from, we can assist you with flights. This evening we will make a toast for our travels, and enjoy a welcome dinner so guests can make introductions and enjoy a relaxing evening.
The Fort
Day Two: Thursday March 21, 2024
Hotel Location: El Fuerte, Sinaloa
This morning we will visit some ancient petroglyphs, and spend some time on the river. Following lunch, we will enjoy a walking tour of the small but interesting town. This evening we will have dinner and free time to relax and visit.
The Sierra Tarahumara
Day Three: Friday March 22, 2024
Hotel Location: Creel, Chihuahau
Board El Chepe Express this morning for a full day train ride, traversing the Sierra de Tarahumara, with spectacular views of Urique Canyon. Count the tunnels, and enjoy the changing scenery as we climb from sea level to nearly 7200 feet altitude.
Check into our hotel and enjoy exploring this small but charming town, on our way to dinner.
Raramuri Lands
Day Four: Saturday March 23, 2024
Hotel Location: Creel, Chihuahau
This morning we head to Cusarare Waterfalls, which requires a short but easy hike to a view point that overlooks this part of Urique Canyon. Guests may choose to climb down into the canyon, to the base of this lovely waterfall, and once returned, we will enjoy some time to browse through the Raramuri handicrafts on offer here. Guests will find beautifully woven purses, handmade dolls, various styles, shapes and sizes of the pine needle baskets this region is so famed for, and various items that are sewn from the vibrant floral and colourful cotton the Raramuri women have adopted as part of their traditional clothing.
Enjoy a simple picnic lunch overlooking the beautiful and tranquil Lake Arareco. From here, we will visit the Valley of Frogs, of Mushrooms, and the Mission Church, which is of the most iconic photographs from the Copper Canyon posted online and in travel magazines.
We will enjoy dinner and a quiet evening.
Deep Into the Canyon
Day Five: Sunday March 24, 2024
Hotel Location: Batopilas, Chihuahau
We will depart Creel early this morning, for the long and arduous drive to Batopilas. Expect vast wilderness, powerful landscapes, and no stores, pit-stops or signs of civilization. There are a few places we can stop for spectacular views, and one snack/craft stop that overlooks Batopilas Canyon. The drive takes about 3.5 hours, but with stops, we will be on the road for about 4-4.5 hours. Upon arriving in Batopilas, we will have lunch and head out to explore this surprising Pueblo Magico on foot. Though remote, this small colonial town has impressive architecture and fascinating history. We will enjoy dinner and a quiet evening.
Silver & Electricity
Day Six: Monday March 25, 2024
Hotel Location: Batopilas, Chihuahau
This morning we will make our way to the Church of Satevo, which is outside of Batopilas and was the site of historical importance.
Upon returning to Batopilas, we will have lunch and visit the ex-Hacienda Shepherd.
We will enjoy dinner and a quiet evening.
Sunset on the Rim
Day Seven: Tuesday March 26, 2024
Hotel Location: Canyon Rim, Chihuahau
This morning we depart Batopilas early for the most famous of rims in the Canyons. We will spend most of the morning climbing back out of the canyon to our destination, arriving on time for a late lunch.
Following lunch, we will enjoy some hiking along the rim, and will ride the tram car to enjoy the fantastic views.
We will enjoy dinner and a quiet evening.
Day of Rest / Day of Adventure
Day Eight: Wednesday March 27, 2024
Hotel Location: Canyon Rim, Chihuahau
There are many options for guests today, as there are ATV’s, zip-lines, and lots of hiking opportunities.
We will enjoy dinner and a quiet evening.
Let Your Hair Down
Day Nine: Thursday March 28, 2024
Hotel Location: Urique, Chihuahau
There are many options for guests today, as there are ATV’s, zip-lines, and lots of hiking opportunities.
We will enjoy dinner and a quiet evening.
Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
Day Ten: Friday March 29, 2024
Hotel Location: Urique, Chihuahau
This morning we will head to a small indigenous village of about 56 inhabitants. Today we will witness an intriguing religious ceremony that is unique to this area, and something that is very rare for foreigners to observe. We are not advertising information on our website for this event, as we prefer to keep this private.
Evening is TBA, as ceremonies like this are sacred and it is crucial for us to respect local protocols and leave when we have a window to do so respectfully.
We ask guests to be flexible today. Please pack comfort snacks for this excursion.
The Jesuits & the Wine they left Behind
Day Eleven: Saturday March 30, 2024
Hotel Location: Cerocahui, Chihuahau
This morning we will have breakfast and make our return journey to the top of the canyon. This afternoon, we will visit the Mission Winery, which has a special story. We will enjoy our evening resting, visiting and sipping on their historical wines.
We will enjoy dinner and a quiet evening.
There and Back Again
Day Twelve: Sunday March 31, 2024
Hotel Location: Los Mochis, Sinaloa
This morning we will have breakfast and depart for the train platform at Bahuichivo.
Our last stretch of time together will be spent on the train for the return trip to Los Mochis, where our adventure began.
Tonight we will have a special dinner to celebrate our trip and discuss what everyone loved, loved less, and loved more!
Home Sweet Home
Day Thirteen: Monday April 1, 2024
Hotel Location: N/A
This morning we will have breakfast, then head to the airport for our flights. Once we know where everyone is coming from, we will be able to confirm the times.
WE HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS CULTURALLY ENRICHING TOUR TO THE CANYONS, AND WILL JOIN US FOR FUTURE TRAVELS
Team Members
Getting Here
By Plane
This trip starts and ends in Los Mochis, Sinaloa. Please contact us before you book your flight, so we can assist with flight path and ensure that everyone arrives around the same time.
By Bus
If you live in Mazatlan or nearby, we can assist you with the bus schedule. It takes about 4 hours by bus from Mazatlan to Los Mochis.
Tour Considerations
Altitude
The canyons reach an altitude of around 7800 Feet above sea level. We will do some light hiking in the area, but nothing overly strenuous.
Twisting Roads on the Cliff
The descent to Batopilas and Urique are long and steep, with twisting switch-backs. If you suffer from car sickness, we suggest gravol. If you squeal on cliff-side roads, you may want to skip this, or put your head under a blanket for the descent (the climb isn´t as bad). All joking aside - this isn´t for everyone, but we assure you these roads are well travelled here.
Meals
Vegans may find it difficult to find meals here. Though vegetarianism is growing across Mexico, this region is remote and traditional. If you are vegetarian or vegan, please contact us for more information.
Tour Difficulty
This tour is not difficult. Our hikes are pretty mild, and even at a higher altitude, we are not above the universal ¨danger zone¨of 8000 feet. We will climb close though - so if you have headaches or dizziness, trouble sleeping or disorientation, you need to inform us ASAP.
Photographs
The Raramuri are used to tourists with cameras, but we still request that guests ask for permission if unsure, and especially if taking close-up photos of people.
Price & Inclusions
Price
TBA
Drinks, Drink Tips, and other discretionary tips for your guides and housekeeping services are not included.
List of Sites & Activities
Walking Tour in El Fuerte
Visit the Petroglyphs
Cusarare Waterfall
Mission Church & Valley of the Frogs
Picnic at Lake Arareco
Walking Tour in Batopilas
Church of Satevo
Ex Hacienda of Shepherd
Hiking on the Canyon Rim
Ceremony of Good vs Evil
Mission Winery
Reserve Tour
Total Price: $TBA MXN
Deposit: $TBA MXN
The deposit is non-refundable
Full non-refundable balance is due by February 20, 2024
Payment Method
PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR RESERVATION WITH US BEFORE MAKING DEPOSIT
Canadians can e-transfer deposit to coppermoontravels@protonmail.com
All guests can make deposit through WISE by following this link:
https://wise.com/invite/u/jenniferb907
We now have STRIPE available. All transactions are subject to an additional 4% to cover our processing fees.
Questions?
Please contact Jennifer at coppermoontravels@protonmail.com
MORE
READING
The Jesuits
and the wine
they left Behind
CONTACT US
Jennifer Bjarnason
Proprietor
coppermoontravels@protonmail.com
Text
+52 443 639 2782
If you would like us to call you, please email or text us to set up an appointment.